Tokyo Packing Tips
Tokyo packing tips will help you decide what to pack in your bags before taking off to destination Tokyo. We've put together a list of items we recommend for Tokyo's different seasons, activities and life in general. We hope you're getting excited about your trip!
Toiletries, Deodorant and Medicines
Tokyo may be one of the biggest cities in the world, but sometimes it's amazing what you can't buy here. Follow this Tokyo packing tips guide to avoid potential worry and frustration.
- Deodorant. Although this has recently become more available for men, it is still not the easiest commodity to come by for either gender.
- You can buy most other toiletries here without a problem although you may not be able to find your usual brand.
- Tissues. A few packets of handy tissues are useful to keep in your bag. Many of the public toilets in train stations and at other major tourist spots regularly run out of paper. It's normal for Tokyoites to keep a packet on them for such occasions.
- Medicine. Over the counter drugs in Tokyo are different from those at home. Pack some painkillers, flu remedies, indigestion relievers, and anything else you think you may need. If you're on prescription meds, bring a few extra just in case.
- Contact Lenses. If you use contact lenses it's worth bringing your solution with you. Again your usual make may not be available in Tokyo.
Contraception, Condoms and Personal Comfort
We promised you the Tokyo packing tips you'll need for a pleasurable trip so there's no way round this one. If you are a condom user, consider packing a few in your bag. I've heard that size is an issue when it comes to your rubbery friend. Apparently the durex here can be a little tight at times!
Ladies, the contraceptive pill is also a rare item. When you can get your hands on it, there are only a few types to choose from. You are better off making sure you have enough with you. If, however, you do need to get your hands on these tiny pills during your stay, try the Tokyo Medical Clinic. See the listing on our Tokyo emergency page.
Lastly. If you have a tendency to suffer from thrush and use canesten cream or an alternative, make sure it's in your bags. If you have no idea how to ask in Japanese, imagine gesturing to try and get someone to understand you! On that note, a small phrase book should be tucked away in your pocket.
Socks and Shoes
Another of our Tokyo packing tips is to bring some comfy shoes. It's more than likely you'll end up doing a bit of walking round the city. Pounding the pavement in uncomfortable footwear is never the best feeling.
Make sure you have some socks without holes. In many homes and local restaurants you are required to take off your shoes before entering.
Electricity and Plugs
In Tokyo, the electricity is 100 volts. If your applicances usually run on a higher voltage you will probably still be able to use them but they may operate with a lower output than normal. The plugs are the flat two pin type. If your items are on three pin you will need a convertor plug to use them.
Seasons and Clothes
The climate here is definitely divided into four distinct seasons. You should pack your clothes according to the typical weather conditions, with something in reserve just in case. See our Tokyo climate guide for information on average temperatures and hours of sunshine.
Tokyo Summer
Basically in summer Tokyo is hot - very hot! Couple that with high humidity and you want to make sure you bring some light cotton clothes that will let your body breathe and that won't stick to you when you start to sweat. A useful tip I find is to wear a simple cotton slip under a blouse, shirt or t-shirt to avoid embarassing patches.
Tokyo Winter
In winter it's cold and dry. Where in summer you hardly need moisturiser - you sweat it off before it's been on your skin 2 seconds - in winter out comes the lizard skin. That's true in my case anyway. Bring your favorite body moisturiser to avoid the scaly look. If you have eczema or other skin condition be prepared and bring plenty of prescription cream with you.
See our Tokyo weather page for more tips on clothing.
